Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
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click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Litoria spenceri
Gazetted date:
04 Dec 2009
Profile last updated:
22 Feb 2024
Description
The Spotted Tree Frog is a distinctive frog, growing up to 6 cm in length. Skin colour is grey to olive green above, sometimes with irregular dark blotches. The belly is whitish, and both surfaces are warty or granular. The groin and back of the leg are orange. The tadpole is generally brown to black, with an elongated body and moderately thick tail that has a rounded tip. The call is a harsh "warrrk…cruk…cruk…cruk".
Distribution
The Spotted Tree Frog is extremely rare and occurs in scattered, geographically isolated populations. Historically it was known from two streams in southern NSW on the north-west side of the Great Dividing Range, however both populations appeared to have become locally extinct. One population has been re-established via a reintroduction program. It is also known from 15 locations in north-eastern Victoria.
Habitat and ecology
- Occur among boulders or debris along naturally vegetated, rocky fast flowing upland streams and rivers.
- In summer, during the breeding season, adults bask on large in-stream boulders while juveniles occupy shingle banks.
- In winter animals are thought to hibernate in vegetation outside of the main stream environment.
- Feeds mostly on insects.
- Breeding occurs from late October to early December and is heralded by calling activity.
- Eggs are deposited under large instream boulders.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Disease - chytrid fungus.
- Changes to natural water flows and water quality (e.g. water flushes, de-silting)
- Predation of eggs and tadpoles by introduced fish, particularly trout.
- Weed invasion of streamside habitats, particularly by Blackberry and the associated use of herbicides for weed control.
- Loss of habitat.
- Small population size.
Recovery strategies
A Saving Our Species conservation project is currently being developed for this species and will be available soon. For information on how you can contribute to this species' recovery, see the Activities to assist this species section below.
Activities to assist this species
- Prevent the introduction and reduce populations of non-native fish in streams where the species occurs.
- Retain riparian native vegetation and fallen timber, rocks and other debris near streams.
- Maintain natural stream channel morphology and flows.
- Protect upland streams from increased turbidity, sedimentation and pollution.
- Minimise the use of herbicides and pesticides near streams.
- Control weeds, particularly Blackberry, along suitable streams.
Information sources
- Barker J., Grigg G. and Tyler M.J. (1995) A Field Guide to Australian frogs. (Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney)
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Spotted Tree Frog Recovery Plan. NSW NPWS, Hurstville NSW.
- Robinson, M. (1993) A Field Guide to the Frogs of Australia. Reed Books, Sydney.
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